Craving a slice of the ice cream business? With the ice cream franchise market booming, 2025 is the perfect time to scoop up a sweet opportunity! As consumers continue to indulge in frozen delights, the demand for ice cream is hotter than ever. And with the rise of cloud kitchens and food delivery apps, entering this frosty world has never been easier or more cost-effective.
For entrepreneurs looking to serve up success, ice cream franchises offer a chance to tap into a profitable and exciting industry. From iconic brands to innovative new players, the options are endless.
In this blog, we’ll dish out the top 8 ice cream franchises you should consider in 2025—so you can start your own delicious journey with the perfect scoop.
Why Ice Cream Franchises Are a Hot Investment in 2025?
The ice cream industry is far from just a seasonal treat—it’s a year-round business that continues to thrive, particularly with the growing demand for convenience. As we move into 2025, the potential for entrepreneurs to enter the ice cream franchise market is sweeter than ever.
So, why are ice cream franchises such a hot investment in 2025?
Endless Consumer Demand: Ice cream has a timeless appeal, transcending seasons and demographics. From children to adults, everyone craves a scoop (or two). Whether it's a traditional cone or a trendy rolled ice cream, there’s something for every taste bud, making it a highly sought-after product.
The Convenience Factor: With the rise of food delivery platforms and the surge in online ordering, more consumers are choosing to have their favourite ice cream delivered straight to their doorsteps. This means ice cream franchises have access to a wider client base and can tap into the growing online food market.
Cloud Kitchen Solutions: Traditional ice cream parlours come with overhead costs, but cloud kitchens change the game. Entrepreneurs can now operate their ice cream business with reduced overheads, focusing on delivery services and keeping costs down while reaching more customers. This model is transforming how food businesses, including ice cream franchises, are run.
Scalability and Low Investment: Compared to other food businesses, ice cream franchises often require a lower initial investment, making it an appealing option for first-time entrepreneurs. With multiple franchise options available, franchisees can scale up quickly and start seeing returns in no time.
For entrepreneurs looking to enter the world of ice cream franchises, 2025 presents a golden opportunity. The combination of a growing demand for convenience, the rise of food tech, and lower investment costs make it the ideal time to take the plunge.
With all these factors creating the perfect storm for success, let’s now take a closer look at the top 8 ice cream franchises that are shaping the future of the industry in 2025.
The ice cream franchise industry offers a wide array of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a profitable and fun business. As consumer demand for premium, innovative, and convenient desserts grows, several ice cream brands stand out as particularly lucrative in 2025. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the Top 8 Ice Cream Franchises in 2025.
Overview: WarmOven, under Kouzina’s food tech umbrella, merges ice cream with baked goods to create an exciting and versatile dessert offering. The brand operates under Kouzina's cloud kitchen model, which reduces overhead costs, offering franchisees a highly scalable, cost-effective business opportunity.
USP: A fusion of warm, fresh-baked goods paired with premium ice cream, offering customers a unique multi-dessert experience.
Franchise Model: Cloud Kitchen and Delivery-Based. WarmOven franchises can leverage Kouzina's cloud kitchen solutions, which allow for low overheads by focusing on delivery through food apps and digital platforms, eliminating the need for a physical storefront.
Key Details: The cloud kitchen model reduces investment costs, making it easier to expand across multiple locations with less financial risk. Entrepreneurs also have the flexibility to add other Kouzina brands to their portfolio.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: As consumers continue to shift towards online food delivery, this model provides a profitable way to enter the food industry with minimal investment and maximum scalability.
Overview: Haagen-Dazs is an iconic, premium ice cream brand known for its luxurious ingredients and indulgent products. The brand boasts a long-standing reputation for high-quality, creamy ice cream, making it a trusted name worldwide.
USP: Premium, high-quality ice cream made with rich, authentic ingredients. The focus is on delivering a luxurious, indulgent ice cream experience that customers trust and love.
Franchise Model: Traditional retail storefronts with the option for kiosks and cart-based franchises. Haagen-Dazs stores provide a branded, full-service experience, complete with premium ice cream offerings and high-end customer service.
Key Details: Haagen-Dazs offers substantial brand recognition, premium product positioning, and comprehensive support, including operational training, marketing, and supply chain management.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: With the increasing demand for premium, high-quality products, Haagen-Dazs remains at the forefront of the luxury dessert industry, providing franchisees with a proven model and a high-margin product.
Overview: One of the most recognised ice cream brands globally, Baskin-Robbins is famous for its “31 Flavours” and its ability to innovate with new, seasonal, and limited-time flavours.
USP: A highly recognisable brand with a strong global presence, offering 31 rotating flavours and the flexibility to introduce new limited-edition options.
Franchise Model: Flexible franchise model including standalone locations, food court outlets, and even kiosks in high-traffic areas. This flexible model allows for scalability in different locations.
Key Details: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, including marketing assistance, supplier connections, and operational guidance. Baskin-Robbins also offers the opportunity for multi-unit franchising, which can significantly boost profitability.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: With global brand recognition, customer loyalty, and the ability to quickly scale, Baskin-Robbins continues to lead the market in innovation.
Overview: Cold Stone Creamery is known for its "create-your-own" ice cream experience, where customers can choose mix-ins like candies, fruits, and nuts to be blended with ice cream on a frozen stone. This interactive process enhances the overall customer experience.
USP: The interactive “mix-in” concept where customers can personalise their ice cream, offering a more engaging and fun experience compared to traditional ice cream shops.
Franchise Model: Cold Stone Creamery operates through full-service stores, with a focus on customer interaction and providing a high-quality, customisable experience. The brand also offers a takeaway and delivery model for high-demand areas.
Key Details: Cold Stone’s distinctive mixing process creates a highly marketable and memorable experience. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, marketing support, and brand with a loyal customer base.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: As consumers continue to seek personalised dining experiences, Cold Stone Creamery’s interactive model positions it perfectly to capture interest from younger, social media-savvy customers.
Overview: Gelato Messina is an Australian-based brand that has gained international acclaim for its premium gelato made with small batches of locally sourced ingredients. Its focus is on producing high-quality, artisanal gelato that rivals the best in Italy.
USP: Handcrafted, artisanal gelato made from high-quality, fresh ingredients and a dedication to authentic, small-batch production.
Franchise Model: Traditional retail model with premium stores and kiosks, often located in high-end shopping areas and tourist destinations. Gelato Messina also has a growing presence in food halls.
Key Details: Gelato Messina stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, positioning itself as a premium offering in the ice cream industry. It’s perfect for those looking to serve up an exclusive, gourmet experience.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: With a rising demand for artisanal, high-end food experiences, Gelato Messina’s focus on craftsmanship and quality ingredients makes it a highly desirable investment for those targeting discerning customers.
Overview: The Ice Cream Factory focuses on creative, unique flavours and eye-catching ice cream presentations designed to engage customers, especially millennials and Gen Z. This brand is all about delivering new, trendy ice cream experiences.
USP: Innovative and Instagram-worthy ice cream creations, often combining bold flavours and striking presentations that appeal to younger customers.
Franchise Model: Flexible retail model with both standalone stores and kiosks. The brand also uses cloud kitchen models to capitalise on delivery opportunities and lower overhead costs.
Key Details: The Ice Cream Factory has embraced the growing trend of social media and food aesthetics, creating ice cream that customers are eager to share online. Franchisees benefit from a modern and trendy brand image.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: The growing importance of social media-driven food trends makes The Ice Cream Factory a standout for entrepreneurs looking to attract younger, trend-focused customers.
Overview: The Scoop Shop is dedicated to using locally sourced, fresh ingredients to create small-batch, artisanal ice cream. The brand takes great pride in its environmentally friendly policies and community-oriented philosophy.
USP: Locally sourced ingredients and a focus on sustainability, making it an ideal option for eco-conscious consumers.
Franchise Model: Primarily traditional storefronts, though the brand is experimenting with smaller kiosks in urban markets and delivery-based models.
Key Details: The Scoop Shop’s commitment to sustainability and quality resonates strongly with today’s eco-conscious consumer. Its community-based marketing approach also fosters strong local customer loyalty.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: As more consumers seek brands with ethical practices, The Scoop Shop’s sustainable approach places it at the forefront of a growing market segment.
Overview: The Royal Scoop offers a wide variety of classic and contemporary flavours, appealing to a broad range of tastes. The brand prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere and high-quality ice cream.
USP: A family-friendly atmosphere with a broad selection of ice cream that caters to all ages, combined with exceptional customer service.
Franchise Model: Primarily standalone stores, often located in suburban areas, as well as kiosks in family-oriented locations. The brand has strong local community engagement.
Key Details: With a focus on families and community, The Royal Scoop has built a loyal customer base. Franchisees benefit from a business model that is easy to operate and expand in family-focused locations.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025: The increasing demand for family-friendly businesses makes The Royal Scoop a great option for those looking to tap into the growing family market in suburban areas.
Now that you know the top ice cream franchises, let’s dive into what makes them successful and the key elements to consider before investing.
Purchasing an ice cream franchise can be both profitable and fulfilling. However, to truly succeed, there are key elements that make certain franchises stand out from the competition. Below, we explore the important factors that contribute to a thriving ice cream business, with examples of how leading brands excel in each area.
1. Strong Brand Identity and Customer Loyalty
The success of any franchise depends on having a strong brand with a devoted following. Brands that are recognised and trusted by consumers can generate repeat business without heavy reliance on advertising.
Example: Baskin-Robbins has established a strong identity with its iconic “31 flavours” and is recognised worldwide. This brand loyalty translates into repeat customers, making it a leading name in the ice cream industry. Their ongoing customer engagement with seasonal flavours and loyalty programs also helps foster a committed following.
Key Takeaways: A solid brand identity means customers already trust the product, which can significantly reduce the effort needed to attract new customers. Customer loyalty increases repeat sales and word-of-mouth recommendations, which are more successful than conventional marketing.
2. Product Innovation
Success often comes from offering something unique or continually evolving your product line. Ice cream businesses that consistently introduce new flavours, textures, or serving methods stand out and keep customers coming back for more.
Example: Cold Stone Creamery’s interactive concept of mixing toppings into ice cream on a cold stone is a prime example of product innovation. Their “Create Your Own Creation” model allows customers to craft their personalised ice cream, making the process both fun and unique.
Key Takeaways: Innovation doesn’t just mean creating new flavours—it’s about offering an experience that keeps customers engaged. Seasonal flavours, limited-time offerings, and new product lines keep your brand fresh and exciting, which can drive consistent customer visits.
3. Operational Efficiency
Streamlined operations are essential to running a profitable business. Effective management of inventory, staffing, and customer service ensures high-quality products and a smooth customer experience.
Example: Kouzina’s WarmOven utilises a cloud kitchen model, significantly reducing overhead costs while improving operational efficiency. By focusing on delivery and takeaway, WarmOven operates multiple brands from one location, optimising resources and reducing waste.
Key Takeaways: Efficient operations lead to cost savings and a smoother customer experience. Cloud kitchens or delivery-focused models enable organisations to expand quickly while providing the best product and service delivery with low overheads.
4. Effective Marketing and Social Media Engagement
In today’s digital world, marketing plays a huge role in the success of a franchise. Social media is an effective platform for connecting with customers and creating buzz around your brand.
Example: The Ice Cream Factory has made its mark by focusing on visually appealing, Instagram-worthy ice cream creations. This social media-savvy brand encourages customers to share their experiences online, boosting visibility and attracting new customers organically.
Key Takeaways: Building a strong online presence and creating shareable moments can significantly expand your reach. Engaging customers via social media helps increase brand awareness, build a community, and potentially create viral marketing without major ad spending.
5. Franchise Support and Training
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a franchise is the support you receive. Comprehensive training, clear operational guidelines, and marketing strategies ensure you are set up for success.
Example: Haagen-Dazs provides extensive training for franchisees, including operational best practices, product training, and marketing techniques. This support helps franchisees maintain the premium standards that the brand is known for.
Key Takeaways: A well-structured support system and continuous training are key to maintaining consistency and operational excellence. Franchisees can confidently manage their businesses with the help of experienced mentors, ensuring they adhere to brand standards.
6. Scalability and Flexibility
The ability to expand fast and efficiently is a huge advantage. A flexible business model that adapts to various locations and markets will allow franchisees to expand without massive upfront investment.
Example: Cold Stone Creamery offers multiple formats for franchisees, including full-service stores, kiosks, and food trucks. This adaptability makes it easier for franchisees to expand into different types of markets, from high-end retail spaces to more casual, mobile setups.
Key Takeaways: Flexibility in the business model gives franchisees the ability to expand and adjust based on market demands. Whether you opt for a traditional store or a mobile kiosk, scalability ensures franchisees can capture new opportunities without heavy financial burdens.
Now that we’ve explored the key factors for success, let’s dive into why 2025 presents a golden opportunity to invest in the ice cream franchise industry.
Why 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Invest in Ice Cream Franchises?
The ice cream industry is thriving, and 2025 presents a great opportunity for business owners to enter the market. Here’s why:
Growth of the Delivery Economy
The popularity of food delivery platforms like UberEats, Zomato, and Swiggy has made ice cream easily accessible to consumers at home.
Ice cream franchises with a delivery-first model, such as Kouzina’s WarmOven (cloud kitchen), can scale quickly with minimal overheads.
Rising Demand for Premium and Artisanal Products
Consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, artisanal products, willing to pay more for gourmet ice cream and gelato.
Brands like Gelato Messina cater to this trend with small-batch, authentic gelato made from premium ingredients.
Social Media Influence and the Experience Economy
The growing influence of social media drives demand for unique and visually stunning experiences, particularly among younger generations.
Ice cream franchises like The Ice Cream Factory create Instagram-worthy, shareable experiences that go viral, helping them reach a wider audience.
Affordable Investment with High ROI Potential
Ice cream franchises often require a lower initial investment compared to other food businesses, making them more accessible for entrepreneurs.
Models like cloud kitchens or kiosks keep costs low, while high demand for ice cream leads to quick ROI.
Expanding Consumer Preferences and Trends
Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking vegan, dairy-free, and low-sugar options, which many ice cream brands are now offering.
Brands like Funky Nut Co. cater to this growing demand with healthier yet indulgent frozen treats.
Strong Support Systems for Franchisees
Established ice cream brands like Haagen-Dazs and Baskin-Robbins offer franchisees comprehensive training, marketing support, and operational guidance.
This support ensures that franchisees can succeed and deliver a consistent, high-quality customer experience.
With 2025 offering a wealth of opportunities in the ice cream franchise market, let’s explore how Kouzina can help you turn this sweet investment into a successful business venture.
How Kouzina Can Help You Succeed in the Ice Cream Franchise Market?
Kouzina Food Tech India offers the tools and support you need to succeed in the ice cream franchise business. Here’s how we can help:
Cloud Kitchen Solutions
Launch your ice cream franchise with lower overheads and increased scalability by using Kouzina’s cloud kitchen setup.
Focus on delivery, eliminating the need for a physical storefront.
Franchise and Brand Development Support
Kouzina provides brand building, marketing strategies, and operational guidance to set your ice cream business up for success.
Multi-Brand Operating Model
Operate multiple brands from one kitchen, reducing costs and diversifying your offerings to cater to different customer preferences.
Digital Marketing and Customer Acquisition
Build strong digital marketing strategies to attract and retain customers, increasing sales and brand awareness.
Comprehensive Training and Ongoing Support
Receive full training on operations, food preparation, and customer service, along with continuous support to ensure efficiency and profitability.
Low-Risk, High-Reward Investment
With a low-cost entry point and scalable models, Kouzina offers an affordable way to enter the ice cream franchise market with high profit potential.
With all the support and tools Kouzina provides, you’re well-equipped to succeed in the ice cream franchise market. Now, let’s explore how you can get started and make your investment a sweet success.
How to Get Started with Your Ice Cream Franchise Investment?
Starting your ice cream franchise with Kouzina is simple. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Reach Out to Us Contact the Kouzina franchise team to discuss your goals, investment potential, and available opportunities that best fit your vision.
Step 2: Explore Our Franchise Models We’ll walk you through the different franchise models (cloud kitchen, multi-brand kitchen, physical store) so you can choose the ideal option for your budget and goals.
Step 3: Review Our Franchise Agreement and Terms Once you’ve selected your preferred model, we’ll provide the franchise agreement and terms to ensure both parties are aligned on expectations and responsibilities.
Step 4: Prepare for Training and Setup After signing the agreement, you’ll undergo our training process, which covers everything from food prep to customer service. We’ll also assist in setting up your kitchen or store to ensure you’re ready to start operations.
Step 5: Launch Your Franchise With training complete and operations set up, it’s time to launch. Kouzina provides ongoing support during the launch phase to help you get started successfully.
Step 6: Ongoing Support and Growth Once your franchise is live, Kouzina continues to offer operational and marketing support to help you grow and maintain a profitable business.
Conclusion
2025 is the perfect year to invest in the ice cream franchise market, with increasing consumer demand for premium products, convenience, and unique experiences. The ice cream industry is thriving, and with Kouzina’s flexible business models, low-cost entry options, and high-profit potential, it’s an exciting time to get involved. Kouzina can help you run a cloud kitchen, multi-brand storefront, or traditional storefront.
Partnering with Kouzina provides you with more than just a franchise opportunity—it gives you access to comprehensive training, expert marketing support, and ongoing guidance to ensure long-term success. Kouzina brings you the resources to succeed in the competitive ice cream market with its food tech expertise and innovation.
Are you ready to launch your ice cream franchise? Contact us today to find out how Kouzina can assist you in turning your business idea into a profitable reality.
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